Horse trailers are specialized vehicles designed for transporting horses. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, but all share a few key features.
Inside, there is usually plenty of space for the horse to move around, as well as some type of food and water dispenser.
Many horse trailers also have ventilation panels to ensure that the horses have fresh air while they are traveling.
With that said, I know it can be a pain to keep your horse trailer clean. But a clean horse trailer is a happy horse trailer!
In this article, I will share easy ways and tips to clean your aluminum horse trailer. Hopefully, they will make all your cleaning effortless and fast! So let’s tune…
Cleaning Aluminum Horse Trailer from Outside
Horse trailers are typically made from aluminum, which is lightweight and easy to tow.
Most horse trailers have ramps or doors at the rear that allow horses to enter and exit the trailer. This makes them an ideal choice for hauling horses to competitions or trail rides.
For those of you who use your aluminum horse trailer a lot, here are 7 easy ways to keep it clean and shining like new.
1. Soft Brush or Cloth to Dust Off
Start by dusting off the outside of your trailer using a cloth or brush from the outside of your trailer.
Be sure to reach all the nooks and crannies, including under the fenders and around the tires.
This will remove any dirt, dust, or debris that has gathered on the surface.
2. Power Washer
Once the dirt and debris have been removed, you can use a power washer to clean the outside of your trailer.
A power washer is a great way to remove the stubborn dirt, mud, and grime from your horse trailer.
Fill a large plastic pail halfway with warm, soapy water and use a big sponge or scrub brush to clean the soapy water. Allow the suds to sit for five to ten minutes to dissolve any dirt.
Then rinse the area with clean water from the power washer. Just be sure to use a low-pressure setting so you don’t damage the aluminum.
3. Mild Soap and Water Solution
If you don’t have a power washer, you can still clean your horse trailer with a mild soap and water solution.
Dawn dish soap is mild and is one of the best soaps for cleaning aluminum trailers at home.
Start with a small area and work your way up. Use a sponge or soft brush to gently scrub the aluminum.
Rinse the area with clean water thoroughly afterward so the soap doesn’t leave any residue. And dry it with a clean towel.
4. Dedicated Horse Trailer Cleaner
There are many horse trailer cleaners on the market that are specifically designed for cleaning aluminum trailers.
These cleaners are usually easy to use and do a great job of removing dirt and grime. You can find them at most equestrian supply stores or online at a very low price.
If you are concerned about using harsh chemicals near your horses, there are also natural horse trailer cleaners available. You can try them.
5. WD-40 Spray Cleaner
WD-40 can also be used to clean your horse trailer, remove oxidation and fix some minor scratches.
This aluminum horse trailer cleaner is made up of light oil and other ingredients that help to dissolve stubborn grime and dirt. It can also help to protect aluminum from corrosion.
To use it, just spray it on and wipe it off with a clean cloth. Just be sure not to use too much, or you’ll end up with a slippery mess.
6. Vinegar to Clean Your Horse Trailer
Vinegar is among the best natural cleaning agents that can be used as a homemade DIY truck wash cleaner for your horse trailer.
Just mix one part white vinegar with three parts water and use it to scrub the aluminum. Rinse the area with clean water afterward and dry it with a clean towel.
Baking soda is another natural cleaning agent that can be used as an alternative to clean a badly tarnished aluminum surface.
Make a paste of baking soda and water and use it to scrub the aluminum. Rinse the area with clean water afterward and dry it with a clean towel.
7. Polishing Compound and a Sealant
If your horse trailer has lost its shine, you can use a citrus shine polishing compound to make it look new again. Be sure to follow the directions on the package so you don’t damage the aluminum.
- Use a polish specifically designed for aluminum, not general metal polish. Many aluminum polishes contain protective ingredients to prevent oxidation while adding shine.
- Work on small sections at a time. Apply the polish with a soft cloth or applicator pad, rubbing in circular motions. Don’t press too hard—let the product do the work.
- After applying, use a clean microfiber towel to buff the section to a shine. This helps remove excess product and enhances the reflective finish of the aluminum
After you’ve cleaned and polished your horse trailer, you can also apply a sealant to help protect the aluminum from dirt and grime. This will also give the trailer a nice shine.
Pay attention to trim, corners, and edges where oxidation tends to start. A small brush or cloth can help reach tricky spots.
Steps for Cleaning the Inside of Your Horse Trailer
Cleaning your horse trailer isn’t just for looks—it’s about creating a safe, fresh space for your equine companions.
So, once the exterior is done, it’s time to tackle the inside efficiently (and maybe even enjoy it a bit).
Here are a few aluminum horse trailer cleaning instructions for inside:
1. Sweep Every Corner – Start by sweeping all corners, under mats, and tight spaces. This removes dust, dirt, and stray hay before you get to the wet work.
2. Mop with Care – Use a sponge or soft brush with a mild soap-and-water solution. Work in sections, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a towel—because slippery floors aren’t fun for anyone.
3. Tidy Walls, Ceiling, and Windows – Dust or vacuum the walls and ceiling, then wash gently. Don’t forget windows—they frame the view and reduce that “what’s that smell?” effect.
4. Refresh Mats – Mats see the most wear. Sweep, scrub lightly, rinse, and dry. This keeps the floor safe and odor-free.
5. Clean Stalls – Remove old bedding and debris, then wash with soap and water. Clean stalls mean happier horses and a more pleasant ride.
6. Organize the Tack Area – Sweep and wipe down your tack space. A tidy room protects your equipment and saves you time hunting for gear.
7. Empty Trash First – Before anything else, remove old hay, droppings, and garbage. It prevents spreading dirt around and gives your trailer a proper reset.
Is Acid Washing Safe for Your Aluminum Horse Trailer?
After a few long trips, stubborn dirt, grime, and oxidation can make it look a little worse for wear. That’s where acid washing comes in.
Acid washing, also called chemical or WCID (wash-clean-inspect-dry) washing, can really bring back that shiny, “just off the lot” look.
I’ve seen trailers transformed with a proper acid wash—it’s almost like hitting the reset button on years of road dust and hay stains.
Here’s the thing, though: acid washing is powerful stuff. If you don’t follow the instructions carefully, it can burn your skin, damage surrounding areas, or even leave marks on your trailer.
The key is to apply it carefully, let it work for the right amount of time, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. A little patience here goes a long way.
If you’re like me and sometimes hesitate around harsh chemicals, there’s no shame in leaving this one to the pros.
A professional detailer can safely handle the acid wash and get your trailer sparkling again—no stress, no risk.
When to Take Your Aluminum Horse Trailer to a Truck Stop?
A truck stop is essentially a service hub for long-haul drivers. Think of it as a combination of a gas station, rest area, and repair/maintenance center—but on a much larger scale.
Most truck stops have extra-wide bays, high-pressure water hoses, and large washing areas specifically designed for big rigs and trailers. That’s why they’re perfect for washing horse trailers, RVs, and other large vehicles that won’t fit in your driveway.
Many truck stops also offer professional cleaning services. These aren’t just your typical citrus car wash attendants—they’re trained to handle large, heavy trailers safely.
Some can even provide acid washing or detailed interior cleaning, depending on the location. Having professionals help means you don’t have to worry about chemicals, hard-to-reach spots, or accidentally scratching your aluminum trailer.
So if you’re planning a long haul, stopping by a truck stop for a wash is a smart move. You get the space, equipment, and sometimes even expert hands to make sure your trailer looks great and stays in top condition.
Before you hit the water, make sure all horses or other animals are safely out of the trailer.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your horse trailer isn’t just another chore—it’s an investment in the safety, comfort, and longevity of your trailer and your horses.
Sure, it takes some time and effort, but it doesn’t have to feel like a race. Take it step by step, be thorough, and don’t shy away from a little elbow grease.
The payoff is worth every sweep, scrub, and rinse.
A clean trailer isn’t just visually appealing—it’s safer for your horses, reduces wear and tear, and prevents odors or bacteria from building up in mats, stalls, and tack areas. Plus, there’s a simple satisfaction in seeing a trailer sparkle from top to bottom.